Aside from dealing with perimenopause, my hypothyroidism has been the most difficult to maneuver as far as my health journey goes.
If you've been here a while then you know I've been through the wringer first with my fibroid and hysterectomy surgery back in 2019 and then my breast biopsy in 2021. I thought I was finally in the clear at least for a while but I spoke too soon sorta speak.
My health and weight since has been my priority and it has been a challenge to manage especially now going through this.
A lot has changed since 2018. I have prioritized my health and have kept up with my healthier lifestyle but then shit like this happens (please excuse my french or don't but the frustration is real) and it's pretty discouraging. Needless to say I love my healthy lifestyle best decision ever and I've always been active in more ways than one. I'm sticking to it no matter what comes crashing my way, but some days are easier than others. IYKYK.
Perimenopause and hypothyroidism are conditions that many women face as they grow older, yet they often come with confusion and challenges. The journey to understand these two intertwined experiences has brought me many obstacles, including relentless symptoms and valuable lessons in between.
In today's post, Navigating the Unknown: My Journey with Perimenopause & Hypothyroidism, I am sharing my experience of navigating the last two and half years with the hope of illuminating the journey for others who may be on a similar path.
First Things First:
Understanding Perimenopause and Hypothyroidism
Perimenopause the transition period leading up to menopause, is no longer a secret. Usually occurring in women in their 40s, although symptoms can start as early as the 30s. Until recently it was once a very taboo topic, thankfully the increasing awareness and open conversations have made it a more openly discussed experience. This shift allows women to better understand the symptoms, seek support, and manage the hormonal changes associated with perimenopause.
It is marked by fluctuating hormone levels that can lead to a range of symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, irregular periods, and sleep issues. Research shows that around 75% of women experience significant symptoms during this transition, which can severely impact daily life.
As for Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone. Essentially, it is an inflammation of the thyroid caused in part by your body's immune system. Symptoms include the ones mentioned above along with a laundry list of others like, weight gain, struggle losing weight, joint & muscle pain, severe dry skin, depression and difficulty getting pregnant just to name a few. Hypothyroidism can be super discouraging.
This condition affects nearly 5% of women in the United States, and when it coincides with perimenopause, the combination can intensify symptoms and make daily activities feel overwhelming.
This post is simply to shine a light on the intersection of these findings, symptoms, and experiences on how they've been affected my life.
My Initial Signs of Hypothyroidism & Perimenopause
Soon after turning 43, I began noticing a few changes in my body. Initially, they seemed minor—my throat began to bother me during sleep, having a hard time swallowing and I occasionally felt more exhausted than usual.
However, these changes quickly escalated after our out-of-state move. My once-consistent energy levels diminished and I started noticing my skin being excessively dry, at first I thought it was the change of climate but now looking back I realize it was a mix of both, my hair was more brittle and falling out more than usual. I even noticed some weight gain that happened unexpectedly without reason, which made no sense considering I was still very active and hadn't changed anything in the way I eat and exercise.
Looking back I realize now that the stress of moving basically jump started my symptoms to the fullest. At least my hypo.
Taking Matters Into My Own Hands
At first, I brushed these symptoms off as part of normal aging and change of climate. It wasn't until I gained 10 pounds(even though I was still working out 6 days a week and eating Keto) and faced with crushing fatigue and constipation that I knew it had to be something more.
Finally a year after we moved out-of-state, had settled into our new house and our new jobs, I finally seeked a new doctor and scheduled a doctors appointment in October 2023.
She ran a series of blood tests which at the time revealed nothing more than some deficiencies in my Vitamin D and Omega levels. A few months later, April of 2024, I went back with the same symptoms, and again, nothing showed in my labs and I went to see a digestive specialist. My digestive system was fine, now looking back again, my constipation was a result of my hypothyroidism.
My doctor did hear me when I insisted that I wasn't sleeping and she said all the other symptoms could be a result of my lack of sleep and probably perimenopause. So she prescribed me Progesterone to help normalize my hormones a little bit since I do still have my ovaries. Truth be told it does help me sleep but I also like to stick to more of my natural supplements if I can.
Fast forward to December 2024 still nothing has changed, still hadn't lost weight no matter how hard I've been working even working out twice a day, eating clean, taking all the natural supplements recommended. Finally I'd had enough and realized that unless I persisted, nothing was going to get better. So I made one last attempt to call my doctor and insisted on change of medication and new blood work. I knew something was going on with me. And unless something changed, I'd seek a second opinion.
Did new TSH labwork and there it was. Come January 2025 did a neck ultrasound and it was confirmed. I had hypothyroidism. The symptoms that started two and half years ago was the cause of this.
Like, what the heck? It's not enough that hypo can make you exhausted or irritable, it also has to make it harder to lose weight?? It's a bum deal, I'm telling you.
If a bunch of those symptoms sound like you, I can NOT encourage you enough to go see your doctor. Figuring out the right medication to balance out your thyroid hormone levels takes time, trust me, I'm still working on it, but the sooner you (we) start, the sooner we can feel like ourselves again.
Hypo affects different people differently.
(The big bummer? It affects more women than men.)
The Learning Curve
Navigating the complexities of both perimenopause and hypothyroidism has felt like climbing a steep mountain. To better cope, I have turned to educational resources, books and reputable online sources even to other influencers going through the same thing. I am doing my best in learning more about hormone therapy, dietary changes, and more natural ways to help control my symptoms. Gaining knowledge is crucial in adapting to my lifestyle, providing a sense of control over my health.
Most people wouldn't know it, but there are days I sleep my 7-8 hours and still feel indescribably exhausted. Some days are easier or harder than others. I actually still deal with a lot of the symptoms like dry skin, brittle nails, struggling with weight loss, digestive issues, mood swings, joint pain, depression, etc.
Lifestyle Adjustments
As I am exploring treatment options, my daily routine is staying consistent. I am staying active (working out and walking/running) even when I'm too exhausted to do so. Nutrition has always been essential in my lifestyle and more so now managing my conditions. I eat foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc—nutrients vital for thyroid health. I have always neglected to eat processed foods and refined sugars, which exacerbate my symptoms. Studies indicate that women who maintain a balanced diet experience a 25% reduction in perimenopause-related and hypothyroidism symptoms.
Exercise is my key focus. I discovered that gentle activities like pilates and walking not only have helped maintain my weight but also improved my mood and energy levels on most days. I have always made sleep a priority and more so now, as improved rest will significantly reduce overall symptoms. But I'm usually ready for bed by 3pm no joke it's frustrating.
The Emotional Journey
The emotional aspect of these changes is perhaps the most difficult to navigate. I have encountered frustration, sadness, and loneliness with these new changes.
On especially overwhelming days, I question my identity and role in life. But I am incorporating daily mindful practices like meditation and journaling into my routine. These things help me stay grounded during emotional ups and downs. Focusing on the positives, and celebrating small victories, is transforming my overall outlook.
Embracing the Journey
Reflecting on my journey with perimenopause and hypothyroidism, I see it as both challenging and transformative. Though these conditions may introduce uncertainty and discomfort, they also open doors for self-discovery and personal growth.
For anyone else experiencing similar challenges, I encourage you to advocate for yourself and seek support. Knowledge is a powerful ally, and understanding your body empowers you to make informed decisions. Surround yourself with uplifting people who can help you navigate these changes. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.
Finding the right balance may take time, but it is possible. Embrace the unknown, and allow it to help shape you into a stronger and more resilient person.
I hope that sharing my story will create a much-needed sense of community.
Whether you are just beginning to notice changes or have been navigating these waters for some time, it’s crucial to remember that your experiences are valid and that abundant support is available.
xx
Sandra
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